This is the tuxedo-wearing version of a ball python – the Axanthic Genetic Stripe. Here’s a perfect description of what being ‘axanthic’ really entails:

“Axanthic – While albinism is the lack of all melanin or pigment color, Axanthics only lack red or yellow or both. Axanthics are a recessive mutation that produces a snake that is varying shades of grey, black and brown. Although most “brown out” as an adult, there are some lines that hold their color more than others. Axanthics are a color mutation only and thus will have the varying patterns as a normal ball python.”

About Carly

I have a confession: I love animals. Join me and the rest of the Featured Creature community as we learn about the weirdest, coolest, and craziest animals out there. Including your dog, Mr. Scrufflebutt (if you submit him!).